In an era when many nations are steadily drifting away from their moral and spiritual moorings, one remarkable decision has shone a light across the Pacific. Recently in this year, the Papua New Guinea Parliament voted, 80 to 4, to amend its Constitution and declare the nation a Christian State.
This historic amendment brings a profound claim into the preamble of the Constitution:
“We believe and acknowledge God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit as our Creator and Sustainer of all the universe, and source of powers and authorities, who has entrusted them to the people and all persons within the geographical area of Papua New Guinea.”
Aside from symbolism, this transformation bases the nation’s identity in the triune God, embracing Christianity as both an individual religion and a national life principle of governance. The Fifth Goal of the Constitution will now explicitly reflect Christian values, and the Bible itself will be recognised as a national symbol.
At a time when many societies are redefining truth and morality, Papua New Guinea’s declaration is a powerful counter-witness. It serves to remind the world community that religion and politics need not be adversaries, and that faith conviction can be harmonized with democratic principle.
To acknowledge God as “the source of our powers and authorities” is to acknowledge that leadership, justice, and moral order are not derived from man’s ambition but from God’s purpose. In doing so, Papua New Guinea is among the few modern nations that uncompromisingly affirms Christ as Lord in its foundational document.
Christianity has shaped the history of Papua New Guinea for centuries, from the first missionary landing to independence in 1975. But this amendment makes it irrevocable, making Christian heritage constitutional identity.
For believers around the world, this moment serves as both inspiration and challenge. It invites us to consider: in our own nations and lives, do we still recognise the authority of God as Creator and Sustainer? Do we, too, live as people whose values are shaped by His Word?
As the Psalmist declared, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” (Psalm 33:12)
Papua New Guinea has taken those words to heart, and in doing so, has given the world a timely example of courage, conviction, and unashamed faith.
